" The media and marketing deluge has spawned a new type of Wall Street loser: the armchair momentum player. These are novice investors who engage in short-term stock buying and selling based on media reports or an expert’s enthusiasm. "
- Gary Weiss

The quote highlights a new trend in the stock market where inexperienced investors are making rapid buying and selling decisions based on information from media reports or excited comments by experts, rather than thorough research or long-term investment strategies. These individuals, termed "armchair momentum players," often enter the market with little understanding of how it works, relying instead on superficial insights to make hasty financial choices.

The deeper meaning of this quote is a critique of the influence that media and marketing have on investor behavior. It suggests that in our current information age, where news travels at an unprecedented speed, investors are more susceptible to fleeting trends and short-term gains rather than enduring value. This approach can lead to significant risks as these novice players might miss out on sustainable investment opportunities or face substantial losses due to the volatility of the market. Moreover, it underscores the importance of informed decision-making in finance, emphasizing that successful investing often requires a deep understanding of the markets and the companies involved.

Gary Weiss is an American journalist and author known for his insightful analyses of business and economic trends. He has written extensively on topics ranging from corporate scandals to financial regulations and frequently comments on the intersection between media influence and market dynamics. His work often aims to provide readers with a clear, critical perspective that helps them navigate complex economic issues more effectively.